FC Dallas 1-Portland Timbers 2
If there is a theme to this year’s MLS Cup Playoffs it may be The underdog’s revolt. It all started on Wednesday when the Portland Timbers shocked MLS Cup darkhorses FC Dallas in a 2-1 win at Toyota Park.
Diego Valeri (23′ and 71′) scored twice to give Portland the 2-0 advantage. While Dallas did get an advantage with Larrys Mabiala being sent off in the 58th minute they weren’t able to make the full comeback. The Hoops lone goal came from Matt Hedges in the 94th minute. Timbers goalkeeper Jeff Attinella was on point making five saves to preserve the result.
With the win the Timbers move on to face their old rivals the Seattle Sounders in the MLS Western Conference Semifinals. The two-legged series starts on Sunday at Providence Park (2:30 PM PST).
As for Dallas the loss puts an end to their ambitions of earning their first-ever MLS Cup title. It will be an interesting offseason with the club likely tendering offers for a number of their young players (Chris Richards will most certainly be off to Bayern Munich). With the addition of their USL League One side their will be more opportunities for their younger players at lower levels which will mean space at the senior level for more veteran depth.
You can read Fern McCostigan’s recap of the match below. In the meantime please enjoy some of our photos of our match courtesy of Eric Guzman.
-
- Photo Credit: Eric Guzman
FC Dallas
Portland Timbers
